I like the idea of calling the IRS, but terrified of the waiting time if it's really 1-2 hours. If I mailed a letter, must I sit tight and wait for the IRS response or could I call the IRS some day before getting the answer? Hmmm....maybe tomorrow or on Wed. I'll try my luck on the phone.

Oh, one more question. If the IRS agrees with me, will it mail a check or make another deposit based on our info on the 1040 form?---------------------------------------------------------------------

Now in response to Bill's questions about my sanity :-)). Yes, I agree I'm saving a paltry $40 by not buying a software, but like someone said later I like it nitty-gritty and see "what's going on behind the curtains". Since I need to prepare only our family's tax return which is quite simple, I actually enjoy spending some time on our 1040 and then checking against TT. It's only once a year and it's a nice tool to check my math solving skills :-). It's quite funny to read all those IRS instructions: Compare line 1 to 4 and enter the higher number....Now increase to the higher multiple of $1,000, etc. etc.

Also, I don't think buying TT would have prompted an IRS clerk to notice my qualified dividends in my case.

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